Spiritual Disciplines (5 of 7) :: Sabbath
March 8, 2010 by Ben Griffin
Funny how people often pick and choose what parts of the Bible they “like” and “don’t”. For instance, we all know that the 10 commandments teach us not to murder, steal, lie and/or covet. But are you also aware that one of the big 10 tells us to “Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.”
God, quite literally, commands that we take a day off. And can you think of a commandment that we more actively ignore than this one?
I know, I know, you are important and have important things to do. I don’t understand you kids’ sports’ schedules, your work demands, your commitments.
Remember, this command is coming from God. The very God of the universe who created the universe in 6 days. And on the 7th day… he rested, sabbathed.
Now, before I simply convince you to take a day off. Let me remind you what the heart of the Sabbath is about. It is a time for renewal of your heart, mind, body and spirit by stopping to spend time in connection with your maker.
Some of us get the stopping part. But, Sabbath is meant to be a reconnection with our maker, our King, our God.
This is a crucial part of practicing the other Spiritual Disciplines. How can you repent if you’re not stopping and seeking God? Your routine should include a true Sabbath.
As I write this, my wife and I are getting ready for a week long trip in a tropical place. We will definitely stop, soak in the sun, enjoy a slower pace. However, we are very excited about a time of Sabbath. A time to seek our creator. To pray to Him, listen to Him and read His word without distraction or noise from the rest of the world.
This is crucial to understanding that life is bigger than this world. That we are heavenly citizens and serve an eternal God.
May God bless you as you Sabbath in Him.
Here’s a quick link to the other Spiritual Disciplines.
Spiritual Disciplines (1 of 7) :: Spiritual Influence
Spiritual Disciplines (2 of 7) :: Routine
